A safer, more direct bike ride between Brisbane’s western suburbs and the city is a step closer, with the preferred design for the Sylvan Road Bikeway released by Brisbane City Council.
The Council says the project will fill the missing link between the Western Freeway Bikeway and the Bicentennial Bikeway, creating a safer route through Toowong and into the CBD.
More than 3,000 cyclists use the Bicentennial Bikeway every day and once complete, the Sylvan Road Bikeway will become part of the main cycling route between the CBD and Brisbane’s western suburbs.
“Brisbane is one of Australia’s fastest-growing cities, which means we need to keep investing in transport infrastructure that keeps people moving,” said Lord Mayor, Adrian Schrinner.
“The Sylvan Road Bikeway is an important project because it fills the missing link between the Western Freeway Bikeway and the Bicentennial Bikeway.
“Once complete, this will become the key cycling route between the city and Brisbane’s western suburbs, making it safer and easier for more people to ride while helping keep Brisbane moving.”
Feedback from the community in June helped confirm the preferred design, with safer crossings and better separation from traffic identified as the biggest priorities.
The preferred design will include:
- a dedicated two-way bikeway separated from traffic;
- new traffic lights to make crossing busy intersections safer;
- wider footpaths;
- better connections to public transport, parks and local businesses.
Bicycle Queensland Chief Executive Officer, Matthew Burke said the organisation and local bicycle user groups had been advocating for the Sylvan Road bikeway for at least 25 years.
“It’s one of the most-used bicycle routes into the city,” said Dr Burke.
“We’re delighted with the proposed designs. There will be much more road safety for everyone in the corridor.
“For the first time ever, you’ll be able to ride from the Centenary suburbs through the city centre entirely on safe, protected bicycle infrastructure, with little risk from cars.”
Brisbane West Bicycle User Group Co-convenor, Chris Cox said the group was pleased that a final concept design had been selected for Sylvan Road.
“This is the missing piece to complete a high-quality, separated cycling corridor from Brisbane CBD all the way to Darra in the south west,’ said Mr Cox.
“We know that physical separation from motor vehicle traffic is the biggest factor that gives confidence to people of all ages and abilities to get on their bikes.
“This will be a game changer for local families who want more transport choices to get around their neighbourhood, as well as commuters, students and recreational riders travelling through the area.”
The final design will be released later this year and construction on the Sylvan Road Bikeway is expected to start in mid-2027.
Councillor Penny Wolff thanked all who have taken the time to share their thoughts on the proposed design.
“Residents told us they wanted a safer way to travel through Toowong and it’s great to see those ideas reflected in the preferred design,” said Cr Wolff.
“I’m looking forward to seeing this project delivered so more people in our community can enjoy getting out and active in Brisbane.”
Meanwhile, upgrades to the Milton Road, Croydon Street and Morley Street intersection are already underway and are expected to be finished early next year, weather permitting.
The project is jointly funded by Council, the Australian Government and Queensland Government.
